AS STRIKE action looms for members of South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, people are being advised not to call the service unless absolutely necessary.

Members of Unison, Unite and GMB have announced their intention to strike for 12 hours on Thursday, January 29 between midday and midnight, with GMB continuing action for 24 hours.

In addition, Unison and Unite will be taking action short of a strike until February 24, which may be followed by a 24 hour strike on February 25.

A spokesperson from SCAS said: “We recognise the right of our employees to strike but we need to maintain an essential service to the public.

“In light of this action we are working closely with all out staff, partners and the public to help us reduce demand on our services.

“This will help us to continue to protect our patients and achieve an adequate and safe level of 999, 111 and PTS cover.

“We will be working hard to get to our most life-threatening patients as a priority including cardiac arrests, choking, major bleeding, strokes and seizures.

“We will also prioritise those involved in road traffic collisions, maternity calls and where people have collapsed or fitted and are exposed to the elements in a public place.

“However, there may be a delay in getting to those patients in non- life threatening conditions.”

The trust will monitor to situation as it develops, but is urging members of the public to think before they call 999, and to only call for an ambulance if absolutely necessary.